Explore a Bachelor's Degree in Economics
If you have an interest in the economy and finance, have strong math skills, and enjoy finding solutions to problems, you may want to consider earning a bachelor's degree in economics online and use it toward a career that combines all three. In many cases, an online bachelor's degree in economics can be earned in four years. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific requirements placed on the program by the institution, your ability to pass each course, whether you are a full-time or part-time student, and if you have any transferable credits that you are able to use toward your degree.
Class Curriculum
An online bachelor's degree in economics will build on a foundation of mathematics and statistics, and will cover multiple aspects of the economy and finance. Each institution will have specific curriculum requirements for its economics program, but the following are a few of the courses you can expect to take:
- Macroeconomics. This course will examine the relationships between quantity of money, employment rate, national income, and inflation. Students will learn how the modern market economy is used to combat national scarcity, the roles of the government, the effects of government spending and taxation, and economic development.
- Microeconomics. This course will focus on the operation of the modern market economy and what factors influence the economy. Students will learn about market structures, supply and demand, costs and benefits, international trade, shortages, and resource allocation.
- U.S. Financial Systems. This course will cover the impact that central banks have on the economy at the local, state, national, and international levels. Students will learn about monetary instruments, the history and structure of financial institutions, and central banking.
While pursuing your online bachelor's degree in economics, you will have many assignments involving mathematics and working through equations. You may also spend time researching and writing papers about various topics, including the U.S. economy, financial law, taxation, and financial statistics. Some courses may require you to analyze a financial problem and determine a solution.
Building a Career
An online bachelor's degree in economics will equip you with financial knowledge and an understanding of what generates and fuels the economy. You will acquire skills needed to analyze and resolve financial problems and adapt to the ever-changing economy of the U.S. There are a number of careers that an economics degree can lead to. For example, you could become a financial manager, financial analyst, personal financial advisor, or an economist. Keep in mind, however, that most economist careers will require an advanced degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides information about each of these professions. While earning your degree doesn't guarantee employment, the BLS is expecting to see an increase in employment for each of these professions. According to the BLS, there is an expected growth of 9% for financial managers, 23% for financial analysts, 32% for personal financial advisors, and 6% for economists.
You can also find information regarding the salary for each profession. According to the BLS, the average annual income is $103,910 for financial managers, $74,350 for financial analysts, $64,750 for personal financial advisors, and $89,450 for economists. However, your income will be based on several factors, including the industry you work in, your employer, your city and state, and your level of experience and education.